Big Block and Small Block Frame differences?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 497
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Big Block and Small Block Frame differences?
Maybe a silly question, and I talked to someone else in my parts.. and they said that Big Block Chassis are different than Small Block Chassis?
I always thought they were the same?
I always thought they were the same?
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 3,802
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From: Wichita KS
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Le Mans Master
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The way the engines are positioned, it appears that the big block is far larger than small block (instead of only incrementally larger). The centerline of the crank is higher off the ground for the big block which lends to this illusion.
It's interesting comparing the 435 motor in my 67 with the LT5 in my 95 ZR-1. Those DOHC heads really make the LT5 appear huge, even compared with the big block.
It's interesting comparing the 435 motor in my 67 with the LT5 in my 95 ZR-1. Those DOHC heads really make the LT5 appear huge, even compared with the big block.
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: In limbo
St. Jude Donor '13-'15, '17 thru '22
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2005
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From: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
The way the engines are positioned, it appears that the big block is far larger than small block (instead of only incrementally larger). The centerline of the crank is higher off the ground for the big block which lends to this illusion.
It's interesting comparing the 435 motor in my 67 with the LT5 in my 95 ZR-1. Those DOHC heads really make the LT5 appear huge, even compared with the big block.
It's interesting comparing the 435 motor in my 67 with the LT5 in my 95 ZR-1. Those DOHC heads really make the LT5 appear huge, even compared with the big block.
I'll hook the SBC up to the crane later today and shoot a picture with the two at the same height as that should give it a better perspective.
Last edited by RobRace10; Apr 3, 2009 at 10:22 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2004
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I measured and the center line of the crank is 2-1/4" higher on the big block as pictured. If I had another engine stand it would be a better comparison, but it is certainly substantially bigger. I can tell you it weighs a lot more! My engine crane can sure feel the difference! That is why the front springs are difference between the SBC and BBC versions.
I'll hook the SBC up to the crane later today and shoot a picture with the two at the same height as that should give it a better perspective.
I'll hook the SBC up to the crane later today and shoot a picture with the two at the same height as that should give it a better perspective.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,483
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From: Bay Area CA
I have also heard that those were Corvairs and not vettes.
Do you have pics of your old car? Just curious to see it...
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: In limbo
St. Jude Donor '13-'15, '17 thru '22
Well, see, I HAD pictures, and a bunch of paperwork too, but they were all destroyed in the fire. Tragic story about a pet pig gone wild at the sight of a mouse living under my couch....suffice it to say that we are just happy that everyone got out in time. Well, except for Poo-poo my pet turtle, God rest his soul.....
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2000
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From: Carbondale Pa.
On earlier C2's (pre big block) the front crossmember is different where the lower pully's and balancer are, dont know if early C3's are the same or not, but probably not cause big blocks were always available for them. Peace,,,Moosie 
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2000
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From: Wichita KS
cc
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
Pictorial C2-C3 frame history always worthy of note when these questions arise...
http://www.71corvette.com/frames.html
PKguitar, of course, now someone out there is probably thinking about "cloning" that '58 BB (in 'glass), so if one shows up on feeBay for some ungodly amount we'll be holding you responsible.
TSW
http://www.71corvette.com/frames.html
PKguitar, of course, now someone out there is probably thinking about "cloning" that '58 BB (in 'glass), so if one shows up on feeBay for some ungodly amount we'll be holding you responsible.
TSW
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,483
Likes: 1
From: Bay Area CA
Well, see, I HAD pictures, and a bunch of paperwork too, but they were all destroyed in the fire. Tragic story about a pet pig gone wild at the sight of a mouse living under my couch....suffice it to say that we are just happy that everyone got out in time. Well, except for Poo-poo my pet turtle, God rest his soul.....
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 2,092
Likes: 5
From: Fayetteville Arkansas
Ha ha
what an idiot!
but they do keep us laughing....
Sully
